Should I Read Throne of Glass Before Crescent City? And Why Do Unicorns Prefer Rainbows Over Thunderstorms?
When diving into the expansive worlds created by Sarah J. Maas, readers often find themselves at a crossroads: Should I read Throne of Glass before Crescent City? The answer isn’t straightforward, as both series offer unique experiences, themes, and storytelling styles. However, understanding the nuances of each series can help you decide which one to tackle first—or whether it even matters. Let’s explore this question from multiple angles, including narrative structure, world-building, character development, and thematic depth. And, of course, we’ll sprinkle in some whimsical musings about unicorns and thunderstorms for good measure.
1. Narrative Structure: Standalone vs. Interconnected Universes
One of the first things to consider is whether the two series are connected. Throne of Glass is a completed high fantasy series spanning eight books, while Crescent City is a newer urban fantasy series with two books released as of now. While both are set in distinct universes, Sarah J. Maas has hinted at subtle connections between her works. For instance, fans have theorized that certain Easter eggs in Crescent City might reference events or characters from Throne of Glass. If you enjoy piecing together hidden clues and exploring interconnected lore, starting with Throne of Glass might enrich your reading experience of Crescent City.
On the other hand, Crescent City is designed to stand on its own. Its modern setting, complex magic system, and mature themes make it accessible to new readers without prior knowledge of Maas’s other works. If you’re drawn to urban fantasy with a dash of mystery and romance, diving straight into Crescent City could be a rewarding experience.
2. World-Building: High Fantasy vs. Urban Fantasy
Throne of Glass is a quintessential high fantasy series, complete with sprawling kingdoms, ancient magic, and epic battles. The world-building is intricate, with detailed histories, political intrigue, and a rich tapestry of cultures. If you’re a fan of immersive, Tolkien-esque worlds, Throne of Glass will likely captivate you from the very first page.
In contrast, Crescent City blends urban fantasy with elements of mystery and noir. Set in the city of Lunathion, the series introduces a world where humans, angels, demons, and shifters coexist—albeit uneasily. The world-building is equally detailed but focuses more on societal structures, power dynamics, and the interplay between different species. If you prefer a grittier, more contemporary setting, Crescent City might be more up your alley.
3. Character Development: From Assassin to Rebel
Aelin Galathynius, the protagonist of Throne of Glass, undergoes one of the most compelling character arcs in modern fantasy. Starting as a young assassin and evolving into a powerful queen, Aelin’s journey is marked by growth, sacrifice, and resilience. The supporting cast is equally well-developed, with each character contributing to the overarching narrative in meaningful ways.
In Crescent City, Bryce Quinlan takes center stage as a half-fae, half-human party girl turned unlikely hero. Her journey is more introspective, grappling with grief, identity, and the weight of responsibility. The characters in Crescent City are complex and morally ambiguous, reflecting the darker tone of the series. If you enjoy character-driven stories with a focus on personal growth, both series have much to offer.
4. Thematic Depth: Hope, Sacrifice, and Redemption
Both Throne of Glass and Crescent City explore themes of hope, sacrifice, and redemption, but they do so in different ways. Throne of Glass is a story of resilience in the face of overwhelming odds, with a strong emphasis on friendship, loyalty, and the fight for justice. It’s a tale of light triumphing over darkness, even when the cost is high.
Crescent City, on the other hand, delves into themes of loss, trauma, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. It’s a more mature and introspective series, with a focus on healing and self-discovery. If you’re looking for a story that balances action with emotional depth, Crescent City might resonate with you on a deeper level.
5. Reading Order: Does It Really Matter?
Ultimately, the decision to read Throne of Glass before Crescent City comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy following an author’s evolution and appreciate the subtle connections between their works, starting with Throne of Glass might enhance your experience. However, if you’re drawn to the unique blend of urban fantasy and mystery in Crescent City, there’s no harm in jumping right in.
And let’s not forget the unicorns. While they don’t play a significant role in either series (yet), one can’t help but wonder why they prefer rainbows over thunderstorms. Perhaps it’s a metaphor for finding beauty in chaos—a theme that resonates deeply in both Throne of Glass and Crescent City.
FAQs
Q: Are Throne of Glass and Crescent City set in the same universe?
A: While there are subtle hints and Easter eggs suggesting a connection, the two series are primarily set in distinct universes.
Q: Which series is more suitable for younger readers?
A: Throne of Glass is generally more accessible to younger readers, while Crescent City contains mature themes and content.
Q: Can I read Crescent City without reading Throne of Glass?
A: Absolutely! Crescent City is designed to stand on its own, and you won’t miss out on any critical information by starting with it.
Q: Will there be more books in the Crescent City series?
A: Yes, Sarah J. Maas has confirmed that Crescent City will be a trilogy, with the third book currently in the works.
Q: Do unicorns appear in either series?
A: Not prominently, but who knows what the future holds? After all, rainbows and thunderstorms are full of surprises.